Qinghai China Travel Guide
Qinghai Province experiences a highland continental climate. This features long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Temperatures change greatly between day and night due to the high altitude.
Climate patterns throughout the year:
* Spring (April - May): Temperatures climb but stay cool, averaging between -2°C and 12°C (28-54°F). Precipitation is low; the wind can be strong. The landscape begins to green.
* Summer (June - August): This stands as the mildest season, with average temperatures between 8°C and 20°C (46-68°F). It is the wettest period, though rainfall remains moderate. Days are long, and the environment stays lush. Summer suits outdoor activities.
* Autumn (September - October): Temperatures descend quickly, averaging 0°C to 10°C (32-50°F). Clear skies are common, but cold fronts bring sudden temperature declines. Autumn colors appear in some areas.
* Winter (November - March): Cold and dry define this season, with average temperatures from -15°C to -5°C (5-23°F), often much colder. Snowfall is common but typically not heavy. Many places of interest may face limited access to hours.
Cycling around Qinghai Lake: July to early August provides the finest weather.
Visiting Monasteries (Kumbum, Ta'er): Year-round access. Shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Photography of Landscapes: July-August for green fields and blossoming flowers; September-October for autumn colors; winter for stunning snowscapes.
Wildlife Viewing (A Bird sanctuary): April-May marks prime time for migratory birds.
Prepare and submit documents
This visa covers most foreign visitors for tourism. Online application form completion, appointment scheduling at an embassy/consulate or CVASC, and in-person submission with biometrics are standard procedures.
Standard processing takes 4-7 business days. Faster processing is available for additional fees.
Careful document preparation
Passport (VALID for at least six months, 2+ blank pages), completed/signed visa application form, one recent passport-style color photo (48mm x 33mm, white background), round-trip flight itinerary, and hotel bookings.
Proof of sufficient money (bank statements) you may be asked for. Copies of previous Chinese visas or travel entries may also apply.
On arrival and special zones
Upon arrival, present passport and visa. Fingerprints collection occurs for most foreign nationals aged 14 to 70. A customs declaration form also warrants submission.
If combining Qinghai with Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) travel, a separate Tibet Travel Permit is necessary. A licensed tour operator obtains this permit.
No mandatory vaccination exists for entry into China for most travelers from the US. However, routine vaccinations (like measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) and travel-specific vaccinations (like Hepatitis A, Typhoid) are good for protection. Visitors may undergo a health declaration process upon arrival, including temperature checks.
The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB), symbol ¥ or 元. The exchange rate changes; check current rates before travel. Exchange foreign currency at major banks or larger hotels in Xining. Cash machines are common in Xining and major towns, accepting international cards. Carry some cash for smaller towns. WeChat Pay and Alipay are dominant forms of payment; consider setting these mobile apps with your international credit card for convenience.
Utilize local buses within Xining and long-distance coaches for affordable travel.
Opt for street food and small local eateries for authentic and inexpensive meals.
Polite bargaining is acceptable for souvenirs and non-fixed price items.
Traveling during these times significantly lowers flight and accommodation costs.
Splitting costs for private car hire is an effective strategy, often needed for remote areas.
Prioritize your health and safety in Qinghai by understanding common concerns and preparing for potential situations.
Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations for entry. However, routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, Polio) and travel-specific vaccines (Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid) are a good idea. Consider Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis for extended stays in rural areas.
Healthcare: Xining has large hospitals with up-to-date facilities, though English-speaking staff may be limited. Rural regions have basic healthcare providers. Hospitals typically ask for upfront payment for services.
Estimated daily costs vary with travel style, itinerary, and personal choices.
A robust travel insurance policy offers peace of mind for your journey. Choose a plan tailored to your activities.
A comprehensive travel insurance policy is a strong consideration. It protects against medical crises, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. This aspect holds particular significance considering the high altitude of Qinghai. Coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, or luggage that goes missing and delay can also support your journey.
If you plan adventurous activities like high-altitude trekking, confirm these are covered by your policy. Some policies specifically mention coverage for high-altitude sickness.
Services like IVisa and VisaHQ simplify the visa application process. They assist with forms, documentation, and submission procedures, saving time and reducing potential errors for travelers.
Streamlined form completion and document checks.
Additional service fees apply for convenience.
Specialized travel insurance companies like World Nomads and SafetyWing offer plans a good fit for adventurous travelers or digital nomads. These policies often cover a range of activities and medical needs.
Policies tailored for diverse travel styles and activities.
Policy details vary; careful review of terms is important.
AirHelp assists passengers in securing money for delayed or canceled flights. This service simplifies the claims process for disruptions, offering financial recourse when applicable under airline regulations.
Potential for compensation up to €600 for eligible flights.
Success-based fee (15-16.6% commission) applies to payouts.
| Category | Budget Traveler (Daily) | Mid-Range Traveler (Daily) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ¥50-100 (Hostel) | ¥150-300 (Hotel) |
| Meals | ¥50-100 (Street food) | ¥100-200 (Local restaurants) |
| Transportation | ¥20-50 (Local buses) | ¥50-150 (Taxis/Didi) |
